A baby’s life was saved thanks to the alertness of the family dog, who detected his rapid heartbeat.
Kim Reynolds, 41, found herself puzzled by her Doberman, Saraya, who began exhibiting unusually clingy behavior around her six-month-old, Alexander.
Throughout the morning, Saraya stayed close to the baby, whining whenever he was moved away. This concern escalated when Alexander appeared to be distressed and unwell, prompting Kim to rush him to the emergency department at Royal Bournemouth Hospital.
Medical staff discovered that his heart was racing at an alarming 280 beats per minute. Just two days later, Alexander was diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.
Kim, who has experience as a canine hydro-therapist and is a first-time mother, commented on how Saraya seemed to pick up on Alexander’s health issue. “It’s like she knew something was wrong,” she said. “If I had just left him in his crib, I can’t imagine the outcome.”
She explained, “Her behavior felt like a persistent nagging thought in my mind, making me uneasy about what was happening.” Though initially confused by Saraya’s neediness, it eventually pushed Kim to seek medical attention.
When they arrived at the A&E, Kim worried they might be unnecessary trouble since Alexander had calmed down. But then the doctors revealed the truth about his heart rate.
To address the situation, the staff attempted to normalize Alexander’s heart rhythm by submerging him in cold water and ice. The experience was traumatic, as the screams from the procedure still haunt Kim. After a couple of attempts, they decided to try intravenous medication.
Eventually, after three doses of the medication, his heart rate stabilized, and they were transferred to Poole Hospital, where Kim stayed for two nights while Alexander was diagnosed.
Describing the syndrome, Kim explained that there is abnormal tissue in his heart, which can disrupt electrical impulses, preventing his heart rate from calming down. Now, Alexander receives a beta blocker called propranolol three times a day, and Kim noted that he takes it willingly through a syringe.
Recently, Saraya’s instincts acted up again, as she became attentive toward Alexander, who was in his bouncer. Kim’s initial thought was a return of the heart issue from before. A subsequent check revealed that Alexander had bacterial tonsillitis, leading to a penicillin prescription.
Kim expressed complete trust in Saraya, stating, “She may not be a registered assistance dog, but she will always be by his side.” She was introduced to the charity Tiny Tickers, which focuses on improving the detection of serious heart conditions in infants and supporting their families.
To raise funds for Tiny Tickers, they will take part in a 100-mile challenge. Kim remarked, “I didn’t realize how vital this charity is; it’s become something deeply important to me.”
Reflecting on her experiences, she pointed out that many healthcare professionals might not be aware of SVT, highlighting the importance of raising awareness about such conditions. She realized how crucial it is to ensure that others understand these potential health concerns for babies.
Overall, while she recognizes that some infants face much more serious health battles, Kim believes it’s essential to spread the word about conditions like Alexander’s, taking comfort in the care he received at Bournemouth and Poole hospitals.
